Zach Wilson is poised to hit the free-agent market, and with several teams actively searching for a new starting quarterback, he may find himself in a prime position for another opportunity under center.
One team that stands out in this search is the Las Vegas Raiders. With a new head coach in Pete Carroll, the Raiders’ need for a competent signal-caller has never been more apparent. It seems increasingly likely that Wilson could be the guy the Raiders look to sign.
The Raiders’ Quarterback Landscape
As we survey Las Vegas’s current quarterback situation, it’s not hard to see that a fresh face will be leading the offense come the 2025 season. Right now, the options seem limited to Aidan O’Connell, Gardner Minshew, or Desmond Ridder. None of these quarterbacks inspired confidence last season, leaving fans questioning if they can truly drive the offense forward.
Carroll’s hiring has sparked some chatter about a potential reunion with Russell Wilson—his former quarterback in Seattle. While the chemistry from their past is appealing, we must recognize that Russell is now 36 years old and no longer at the top of his game. Additionally, there has been some buzz around Shedeur Sanders in the upcoming NFL Draft, but while he has connections to Tom Brady, he doesn’t project as a franchise-altering talent worthy of a high draft pick. This creates an opportunity for the Raiders to focus on other valuable options, particularly in their first round.
Having worked with dynamic quarterbacks in the past, Carroll knows how to maximize their talents, especially when they can operate outside the conventional confines of the offense. Zach Wilson’s skill set mirrors that of Russell and could make him an excellent fit for the Raiders’ plans.
Why Zach Wilson Makes Sense for the Raiders
Despite the challenges Wilson has faced during his time with the Jets, the raw potential remains unmistakable. His stint in New York was rocky but not necessarily a death knell; many quarterbacks have struggled to find their footing in that environment.
Last season, Wilson spent time with the Denver Broncos under Sean Payton, improving his game and intensifying his focus on development. As he prepares to test free agency, it’s clear he won’t be re-signing with the Broncos. Interestingly, there have been whispers about the Kansas City Chiefs eyeing Wilson as a potential backup for Patrick Mahomes, but a fit in Las Vegas seems far more logical.
In his brief appearances last preseason, Wilson displayed significant progress, completing 63.6% of his throws for 397 yards and three touchdowns without a single interception. His ability to remain poised in the pocket, read defenses more effectively, and show confidence in his decision-making were all commendable signs. His athleticism, highlighted by his ability to throw on the run and extend plays with his legs, further bolsters his appeal.
At just 25, turning 26, Wilson could be a cost-effective solution for the Raiders, bringing a wave of rejuvenated quarterback play to Las Vegas. If the Raiders are serious about their future, Wilson may just be the prospect they need to capitalize on a fresh start, provided they are willing to take a chance on his undeniable talent.
